Breaking the Chains of Exploitation in the Supply Chain

In Malawi, many people struggle to make ends meet, with a large portion of the population living on less than $2 a day. Most Malawians rely on farming to survive, with around 85% of the population living in rural areas and engaged in agricultural activities. However, despite their hard work, farmers often face exploitation in the supply chain, leaving them trapped in poverty.

Let’s take a closer look at how the supply chain for farm commodities works in Malawi. Smallholder farmers, many of whom are women, grow about 80% of the crops. They usually farm using traditional methods, primarily for their own consumption, with only a small portion sold for commercial purposes.

When harvest season comes, farmers face a tough choice. They can either sell their crops to local vendors or take them to trading centers. However, reaching trading centers can be difficult, so many farmers sell to bicycle vendors who travel door-to-door in villages. These bicycle vendors then sell the crops to trading center vendors, who have the resources to buy in bulk.

The problem arises when trading center vendors wait for bulk buyers, often big procurement companies that purchase directly from vendors. These companies, focused on profit, may not pay farmers fair prices. This cycle of middlemen taking their share leaves farmers struggling to make ends meet, despite their hard work.

Government and NGOs have tried to address this issue by setting price standards for farmers, but many rural farmers lack information and struggle to find buyers willing to pay these prices. As a result, they remain trapped in poverty.

That’s where Farmconnect comes in. Our project aims to revolutionize the supply chain, connecting farmers directly with buyers. By cutting out middlemen, we can ensure that farmers receive fair prices for their crops, empowering them economically and breaking the cycle of poverty.

Through proper logistical support and innovative solutions, Farmconnect strives to give farmers the power they deserve. By linking them directly with buyers, we can help Malawian farmers improve their lives and build a brighter future for themselves and their families. Join us in supporting Malawi’s farmers and transforming agricultural supply chains for the better.

By: Paul Nthala- Tech Effort Founder